Anne Trent Alford

Anne Trent Alford, 85, of Charleston, South Carolina, wife of James Michael Alford entered into eternal peace Thursday, October 27, 2022 after a brief illness. Her Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, November 23, 2022 in St. Michael's Church, 71 Broad Street at 10:00 a.m. Interment, Magnolia Cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday, November 22, 2022 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in the J. Henry Stuhr Inc., Downtown Chapel. 

Anne was born April 22, 1937 in Charlotte County, VA, daughter of the late Jessie Innis Trent and Susie Trent. The youngest daughter of five children, Anne was always active and curious and loved to learn new things. It was while studying for at Lynchburg College (BA, Education 1960) that Anne met the love of her life on a blind date at the Naval Academy. Anne and Mike were married in December of 1960. While Mike served 20 years in the USAF, they traveled extensively, and Anne was the consummate military officer’s wife. After Mike’s retirement from the Air Force, the family put down roots in Charleston. While Mike taught cadets at The Citadel, Anne became involved in numerous organizations which developed her interests in history, heritage, gardening, government and benevolence. In addition, she and Mike traveled extensively, particularly in the United Kingdom, which she considered her home away from home. 

Anne served as the first Republican woman on the Charleston County Council from 1995-1998. She was a member and twice served as Regent of the Rebecca Motte Chapter of the DAR, member and President of the Garden Club of Charleston. Reflecting her lifelong commitment to giving back to her community she served on many committees at her church and was a member of the Ladies Benevolent Society. She served on the Board of Trustees of the Charleston Museum and the Palmetto Society. An ardent and accomplished genealogist, Anne was a member of many heritage organizations. These included:  First Families of Virginia, Jamestowne Society, Daughters of American Colonies, United Daughters of the Confederacy, and Colonial Dames of the XVII Century.

Described by friends and family as kind, sweet and the consummate Southern Belle, Anne was a sharp dresser with a mischievous side. Many a spontaneous practical joke was concocted by Anne giving us a lifetime of memories and laughter. She will be missed by so many who’s lives she touched with her generosity, kindness, love and laughter. 

Family was always a priority for Anne and her family is grateful for her legacy of Christian faith. Anne is survived by her husband of nearly 62 years, James Michael; daughter, Stephanie Collett (Michael) of Saint Simons, GA; son, Gregory Milam Alford (Shannon) of Hilton Head, SC; five grandchildren: Trent Michael Collett (Amara), Anna Collett Duke (Riley), Conrad Milam Alford, William Henry Alford, and Lyla Helen Alford; and many nieces and nephews. 

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 42040, Oklahoma City, OK 73123.

A memorial message may be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.